‘The AFL drafts them far too early’: Footy legend Brian Peake

An emotional Luke Beveridge addresses media over Tom Boyd retirement

VideoThe Bulldogs coach pointed the finger at the media when he was questioned over Tom Boyd's struggles.Video: Supplied

WA football legend Brian Peake has slammed the AFL for setting up its best young talents to fail because they are drafted too soon to be handle to the intense pressures of the modern game.

Peake, a household name in the 1970s and 1980s during a 405-game career, called on the AFL to let players develop in State leagues such as the WAFL for longer before making them eligible for the most elite level of the game at the age of 20.

He believed the amount of spare time and more disposable income for teenagers snapped up by the AFL system was, in the most part, a recipe for disaster.

The AFL Commission has cited mental health as the biggest issue in the modern game, with a host of stars taking time away from their clubs to deal with personal problems.

Peake’s son Brett played 188 games for Fremantle and St Kilda between 2005 and 2012, including two grand finals. He made his debut at 21.

Camera IconPremiership player Tom Boyd has walked away from the game.Picture: AFL Media